Chicken fried steak is a comfort food classic that many enjoy for its crispy exterior and tender meat. This dish brings together perfectly seasoned cube steak, a savory batter, and a rich gravy, making it a favorite in Southern cuisine. If you love hearty meals that fill your belly and warm your soul, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why We Love This Chicken Fried Steak
There are countless reasons to adore chicken fried steak. First, the combination of crispy batter and juicy meat creates a delightful texture that’s hard to resist. Each bite provides a satisfying crunch followed by tender, flavorful meat. Second, the dish is versatile, making it perfect for different occasions, from simple weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Finally, chicken fried steak embodies the essence of comfort food, creating a sense of nostalgia that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients for Chicken Fried Steak
- 4 cube steaks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Vegetable oil for frying
Directions
Start by preparing the meat. Season both sides of the cube steaks with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Allow them to sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
In one bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
In another bowl, place the flour. Add a pinch of salt and mix well.
Dip each seasoned steak into the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off excess flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
Return the steak to the flour for a second coating. Make sure each piece is thoroughly covered to create a crispy crust.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet.
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded steaks in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Remove the steaks from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
To make the gravy, use the drippings left in the skillet. Add a little more oil if needed, then sprinkle in some flour. Whisk continuously until it turns a golden brown color.
Gradually add milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the crispy chicken fried steak topped with the creamy gravy.
How to Serve Chicken Fried Steak
Serving chicken fried steak is an opportunity to create a complete dining experience. This dish pairs well with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, collard greens, or buttered corn. You can also add a light salad for a refreshing contrast to the heavy entrees. When plating, place a generous portion of chicken fried steak on the plate, and drizzle the gravy over the top, letting it cascade down the sides. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color. For a true Southern feast, consider serving with homemade biscuits or cornbread. Don’t forget to offer a side of pepper sauce for those who enjoy a little heat. This dish brings comfort and warmth, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
Expert Tips for Chicken Fried Steak
To achieve the best chicken fried steak, consider a few expert tips. First, use high-quality cube steaks; they should be tender and well-marbled for the juiciest results. If possible, let the coated steaks rest for about 10-15 minutes before frying. This resting time helps the coating stick better and results in a crunchier texture. Use a deep-frying thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the perfect temperature, around 350°F; this is key to getting that beautiful golden crust. If the oil is not hot enough, the steak can absorb too much oil and become greasy. Always fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lower the oil temperature. For the gravy, keep an eye on your roux—it should not burn but should turn a nice golden hue to develop flavor. Finally, feel free to tweak the seasonings in the batter or gravy to suit your taste preferences. Experiment with a dash of hot sauce in the gravy for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
How to Store Chicken Fried Steak
Storing chicken fried steak requires some care to maintain its flavor and texture. First, allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature before storing. Place the steaks in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them; wrap each steak tightly in foil or plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen steak, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, place the chicken fried steak in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, which helps retain its crispy coating. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy.
Variations of Chicken Fried Steak
While traditional chicken fried steak is delicious on its own, various variations can add a unique twist to this classic dish. One popular option is to use different cuts of meat, such as chicken thighs or even turkey cutlets. These alternatives offer a different flavor and texture but remain true to the essence of the dish. You can also experiment with different coatings. For a spicy kick, you could add cayenne pepper or paprika to the flour mixture. Another variation includes using buttermilk in the egg mixture for added flavor and moisture. If you are looking for a lighter version, try air-frying the coated steak instead of deep-frying. This method reduces oil but still produces a satisfying crunch. You can also turn this dish into a hearty sandwich by serving the steak on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments. Lastly, consider creating a vegan version using breaded and fried eggplant or tofu for a delicious plant-based alternative.
FAQ about Chicken Fried Steak
What is chicken fried steak?
Chicken fried steak is a dish made from a breaded and fried cube steak, usually served with gravy. It’s a classic comfort food, especially popular in Southern cuisine.
How do I make chicken fried steak crispy?
To make chicken fried steak crispy, ensure the oil is hot enough, and double-coat the steak in flour for maximum crunch. Letting the coated steak rest before frying also helps.
Can I use a different type of meat for chicken fried steak?
Yes, other meats such as chicken, turkey, or even plant-based options can be used to create variations of chicken fried steak.
How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
To keep the coating from falling off, ensure the meat is dry before seasoning, and allow it to rest after breading. This helps the flour adhere better during cooking.
Can I make chicken fried steak ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare chicken fried steak ahead of time. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze them for longer storage.
What sides go well with chicken fried steak?
Common side dishes that pair well with chicken fried steak include mashed potatoes, green beans, coleslaw, and biscuits. These complement the richness of the dish beautifully.
Chicken Fried Steak
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 4 pieces cube steaks Use high-quality, tender cube steaks.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour For coating the steaks.
- 2 large eggs Whisked with milk for batter.
- ½ cup milk Used in the batter.
- 1 teaspoon salt To season steaks and for the flour mix.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper To season steaks.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder For seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder For seasoning.
- Vegetable oil as needed for frying Enough to cover the bottom of the skillet.
For the Gravy
- as needed to taste salt To season the gravy.
- as needed to taste black pepper To season the gravy.
Instructions
Preparation
- Season both sides of the cube steaks with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Allow them to sit for about 15 minutes.
- In one bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
- In another bowl, place the flour and add a pinch of salt, mixing well.
Coating
- Dip each seasoned steak into the flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Shake off excess flour.
- Dip the flour-coated steak into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
- Return the steak to the flour for a second coating to create a crispy crust.
Cooking
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded steaks in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Remove the steaks and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Making the Gravy
- Using the drippings left in the skillet, add a little more oil if needed and sprinkle in some flour. Whisk continuously until it turns a golden brown.
- Gradually add milk, whisking to avoid lumps, and stir until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve the crispy chicken fried steak topped with creamy gravy, garnished with chopped parsley.
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